Independence note: askotto is an independent consumer-information and consultancy publisher. We are not a mobile network, and we are not owned by, partnered with, or endorsed by Three, O2, Sky Mobile, EE, Vodafone or any provider named in these reports. Everything here is general guidance, marked and written by our own reviewers; confirm current details with the network before acting. Our phone and WhatsApp lines reach askotto consultants only — never a network's own customer service.
Section 01
Switching & numbers
PACThe code (text PAC to 65075, free) that carries your number to a new network within 30 days.
STACThe same mechanism (75075) when you're happy to drop the number.
PortingThe behind-the-scenes number move the PAC triggers — usually one working day.
Section 02
Radio & calling
4G Calling / VoLTEVoice carried over 4G — essential since 3G retired across 2024–25.
Wi-Fi CallingCalls and texts over broadband — the cure for thick-walled rooms.
Standalone 5G / 5G+5G running on its own modern core (EE leads nationally) — snappier, smallest layer, newest handsets only.
Mast re-farmingOld spectrum re-used for newer tech — why coverage maps shift year to year.
Section 03
Plans & billing
Fair use ceilingThe cap hiding inside 'unlimited' abroad and inside some perks.
Tethering / hotspotSharing phone data with a laptop — capped on some unlimited generations.
Split contractDevice credit and airtime billed separately (O2, Sky) — device payments stop at repayment.
Spend capThe free, self-set wall against out-of-allowance surprises.
Pounds-and-pence ruleSince January 2025, mid-contract rises must be disclosed in cash terms before signature.
Section 04
Market & disputes
MVNO / tenant brandAn operator renting masts (giffgaff, SMARTY, Sky, Tesco, iD, VOXI, Lebara, 1pMobile).
Deadlock letterThe network's formal 'we're done' — your immediate ticket to the ombudsman.
Communications OmbudsmanThe free referee whose ruling binds the network and never you.
7726The free number that forwards scam texts to the networks' fraud teams.
Independence note: askotto is an independent consumer-information and consultancy publisher. We are not a mobile network, and we are not owned by, partnered with, or endorsed by Three, O2, Sky Mobile, EE, Vodafone or any provider named in these reports. Everything here is general guidance, marked and written by our own reviewers; confirm current details with the network before acting. Our phone and WhatsApp lines reach askotto consultants only — never a network's own customer service.